About this Simulation

This simulation models the formation and position of secondary (double) rainbows caused by light reflecting twice inside water droplets. Learners can manipulate wavelengths, viewing angles, and droplet parameters to visualize how secondary rainbows appear at different locations in the sky compared to primary rainbows, and explore the relationship between light wavelength and rainbow visibility.

Learning objectives: Understand how double internal reflection produces secondary rainbows at approximately 50–53° from the antisolar point | Investigate how different wavelengths of light create the reversed color sequence in secondary rainbows | Predict and explain why secondary rainbows are fainter than primary rainbows